YORK'S evening economy is set to win a much-needed boost as three of the city's most popular attractions are opened up for special themed evenings.

Visitors will be invited to come to Jorvik, Barley Hall and the ARC (Archaeological Resource Centre) to get a different view of Viking, Roman and medieval life - and also to give their views on the future of the city's evening economy.

The York Archaeological Trust, which runs all three attractions, has been awarded Yorkshire Forward funding to undertake a feasibility study into developing York's evening economy.

The events, to be held on Friday, February 27, Saturday, March 6, and Friday, March 12, will give people a chance to sample Roman, Viking and medieval food, drink and entertainment.

"We want people to come along and enjoy the evenings, but also have the opportunity to share their thoughts and hopes for York's evening economy," said Peter Nicholson, York Archaeological Trust director of finance, who is spearheading the project. "The results of the survey work undertaken on the evenings will be vital in helping us develop an attractive evening package for York residents and visitors to enjoy in the future."

The first event, on February 27, will be a "roving feast," involving a guided tour between Jorvik, ARC and Barley Hall.

On March 6, a "cabaret with a difference" will involve travelling between Jorvik, ARC and Barley Hall.

Finally, on March 12, a "candlelit extravaganza" at Barley Hall will involve costumed interpreters guiding visitors through a medieval entertainment experience.

Tickets for each event are £12. For more information, phone 01904 543403.

The development comes after York Tourism Bureau recently launched a new marketing initiative, Good Evening York, all designed to encourage a livelier and more diverse evening entertainments programme in York.

But the bureau is concerned that the introduction of evening parking charges could potentially have a negative impact on the campaign.

Updated: 11:19 Tuesday, February 17, 2004